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One-Pot Lemon Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Spinach

Close-up of creamy orzo pasta mixed with chicken pieces and spinach, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
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Make this quick, creamy, and bright orzo pasta dish in one pot for easy weeknight cooking. It combines tender orzo with lemon, garlic, Parmesan cheese, spinach, and grilled chicken.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken strips lightly with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  2. Add the dry orzo pasta and minced garlic to the same skillet. Toast for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Cook for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir until the spinach wilts completely, about 1-2 minutes.
  6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine and heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  7. Serve immediately, topped with extra grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
  • This recipe pairs well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the lemon flavor.
  • If you skip the chicken, this makes an excellent vegetarian side dish.
  • If you are planning meals for the week, this recipe is a good alternative to using meal planning services.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.unfoldrecipes.com/orzo-pasta-lemon-garlic-parmesan-one-pot/